A Warm Welcome to Cape Verde

As I stepped off the plane at Nelson Mandela Airport, I was greeted by a warm breeze and the friendly smile of our guide, who would accompany us on this enchanting journey through Cape Verde. The drive to our hotel in Praia was a gentle introduction to the island’s charm, with the landscape unfolding like a well-loved book, each page revealing a new story. The city of Praia, with its vibrant streets and welcoming locals, felt like a place where time had gracefully slowed down, inviting us to savor every moment.

Our first day was spent exploring the capital, a city that seemed to hum with the echoes of its rich history. The Dona Maria Pia Lighthouse stood tall, a sentinel watching over the island, its cannons a reminder of the days when pirates roamed these waters. As we wandered through the historical center, the architecture spoke of a bygone era, each building a testament to the island’s colonial past. The Sucupira Market was a riot of colors and sounds, a place where the heart of Cape Verde beat strongest, and I found myself lost in its vibrant energy.

Stepping Back in Time at Cidade Velha

The next leg of our journey took us to Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that felt like stepping back in time. The Royal Fortress of São Filipe stood proudly, its walls whispering tales of battles fought and won. As we walked through the ruins of the first sub-Saharan African Cathedral, I could almost hear the voices of those who had once gathered there, their prayers carried on the wind.

The famous Banana Street, with its traditional houses, was a picturesque reminder of the island’s cultural heritage. Each house seemed to hold a story, a piece of the past preserved in its walls. The Convent of São Francisco, with its serene atmosphere, offered a moment of reflection, a chance to pause and appreciate the beauty of this historic place.

Lunch by the seafront was a delightful affair, the local cuisine a symphony of flavors that danced on the palate. As I sat there, watching the waves kiss the shore, I felt a deep connection to this island, a place where history and nature intertwined in perfect harmony.

The Natural Beauty of Santiago Island

Our final day was a journey through the natural beauty of Santiago Island, a landscape that seemed to stretch on forever, each vista more breathtaking than the last. The Assomada Market was a feast for the senses, the vibrant colors of the local produce a testament to the island’s fertile land.

The Serra Malagueta natural park offered views that took my breath away, the world spread out below us like a patchwork quilt, each piece a different shade of green. As we made our way to Tarrafal Beach, the white sand and crystal-clear waters beckoned, a paradise waiting to be discovered.

Meeting the Rabelados community was a humbling experience, their way of life a reminder of the island’s rich cultural tapestry. As we made our way back to Praia, the sun setting on the horizon, I felt a sense of peace, a contentment that comes from knowing I had experienced something truly special.

Cape Verde had captured my heart, its beauty and history a reminder of the joy of slow travel, of taking the time to truly see and appreciate the world around us. As I boarded my flight home, I knew that this journey would stay with me, a cherished memory to be revisited time and time again.